Strictly’s Alex Scott confirmed as Sue Barker’s A Question of Sport replacement

Footballer Alex Scott has been confirmed as the new host of A Question of Sport.

The England and Arsenal player, and former Strictly Come Dancing star, will step in to replace Sue Barker, who hosted the BBC sports quiz show for 24 years.

Alex’s appointment was unveiled by former footballer and pundit Gary Lineker, who took to Twitter to congratulate her.

Pre-empting backlash over the appointment, Gary wrote: “Congratulations and good luck to @AlexScott on being the new host for Question Of Sport.

“Smart, knowledgeable and perfectly qualified for the role. Oh…and if you have a problem with Alex getting the job, you might just be part of the problem.”

Alex, 35, is replacing Sue, 64, who was axed from the show alongside team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell.

Sue said she was “sad” to be dropped from the show after 24 years at the helm.

She told the Mirror: “I’ve absolutely loved my 24 years fronting A Question of Sport, it’s been my dream job.

“But I understand the BBC want to take the show in a new direction and I’m sad to say goodbye.”

It was said bosses were planning to revamp the iconic show by replacing Sue and team captains Matt, 47, and Phil, 54.

Rugby player Matt was the longest-serving captain after he succeeded jockey Frankie Dettori just months after winning the Rugby World Cup in 2004.

He had been so thrilled to join the show that he missed an England training session to record an episode and was dropped from the national squad.

He was later recalled but quit rugby in 2006.

Cricketer Phil joined the programme in 2008, replacing footballer Ally McCoist.

Following the news he was being dropped, Matt wrote on Twitter: “Thanks for all the lovely messages. I’m not sure how to respond so I’ll have a think. Needless to say I will miss Question Of Sport immensely.”

Phil posted: “13 yrs at Question of Sport has been a great part of life .. going to miss it hugely .. thanks so much for all the lovely messages !!”